Marketing tips for professional service firms & the weary people in them

October 10, 2009

Facing the Fear

Fear often hinders us. This is especially true in these slow economic times. Many of us have a real fear of losing our job. Therefore, we keep our heads down and focus exclusively on billable work. While that seems the safe thing to do, I have my doubts. Because what suffers is strategic thinking (and personal growth, although I realize that personal growth is now much lower on the priority list for many. Staying employed is job #1 for most).

It does seem counter-intuitive yet I believe that now is the time to think strategically and step out to try new things. I know that this is a scary proposition for some. It feels safer to stay off the radar screen of the seniors in the firm rather than risk bringing attention to yourself with what some might think is a crazy idea.

One way to deal with this is, if you have an idea you believe has merit, discuss it with someone whose opinion you trust. Then, bring it to the attention of the seniors in your firm if the idea has legs. In these times, great risk can generate great rewards. The video above, while a bit corny, is true. If we understand what makes us afraid, we are better able to manage the fear. Let's take the risk and cast our eyes up from our billable work and attempt to be part of a solution for our firm.